HMX Jelly vs. HMX SU

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinctive qualities of each option. The HMX Jelly, renowned for its low-pitched and thocky sound signature, offers a super smooth typing experience thanks to its excellent factory lubrication and lightweight design, requiring just 42g of actuation force. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers or typists who appreciate a tactile feedback combined with a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX SU features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, producing a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that appeals to those seeking a more grounded auditory feedback during their typing sessions. While both switches fall under the linear category and deliver a smooth keystroke, their sound characteristics and actuation forces present each switch as a unique contender. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Jelly and HMX SU keyboards both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, which leads to a shared auditory and tactile experience when typing. Nylon is revered in the mechanical keyboard community for its sound-dampening properties, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile in comparison to harder plastics. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a rounder and more muted typing experience, as nylon effectively absorbs sound waves, thus contributing to a less acoustic and more pleasant environment during typing sessions. Since both keyboards employ the same material for their housings, users can expect to achieve similar sound profiles and overall tactile feels despite potential differences in other switch characteristics.

In terms of the bottom housings, the HMX Jelly and HMX SU again showcase a uniformity in their construction with nylon as the primary material. This consistency ensures that, regardless of which model you choose, the bottom-out sound and feel during typing will maintain a consistent quality across both keyboards. Given that the bottom housing significantly influences the switch's performance when the key is pressed down, users are likely to have a smooth experience that is consistent, further highlighting the effectiveness of nylon in diminishing vibration and enhancing sound absorption. Users can thus enjoy a reliable performance while maintaining the distinct auditory characteristics that nylon provides.

Overall, while this brief analysis acknowledges that both the HMX Jelly and HMX SU utilize nylon for their switch housings, it reinforces how the same material results in similar acoustic and tactile outcomes. The nylon's ability to absorb sound and provide a softer typing experience is a hallmark feature present in both keyboards' designs. Therefore, regardless of the specific model chosen, users can rest assured that they will experience the same high-quality sound profile and keystroke feel, underscoring the enduring appeal and functionality of nylon in mechanical keyboard construction.

Weight

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, but they do differ slightly in their specifications. The Jelly switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the SU switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Jelly switch is the lighter option of the two, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the SU switch offers a bit more resistance, which provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push during their typing experience. Both switches, while light in comparison to others, cater to different preferences in typing dynamics. If someone seeks a balance of lightness with a stronger tactile response, the SU switch might be the better choice, whereas those who prefer the lightest touch would likely opt for the Jelly switch.

Travel distance

The HMX Jelly linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HMX SU linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can significantly impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keypress. Gamers often favor the shorter travel distance of the SU switch for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel might lean towards the Jelly switch for its depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus tactile depth in their key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly switch is characterized by its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, making it quite satisfying to type on for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback. This is enhanced by its excellent factory lubrication, which minimizes any rattling and contributes to the smoothness of the keypress. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch features a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, likely due to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. While the Jelly provides a more robust auditory experience, the SU offers a more understated sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing all tactile feedback.

When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch stands out for its super smooth action, largely attributed to its high-quality factory lube combined with a lightweight actuation force of 42g. This makes it very easy to press, allowing for a comfortable and swift typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU’s feel isn’t explicitly detailed in the provided information. However, we can infer that its construction with a PA12 housing and T5 stem likely contributes to a solid and stable feel, although specifics on smoothness or actuation force are unknown.

In summary, while both HMX Jelly and HMX SU linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities, the Jelly switch is more pronounced with a deeper thock and super smooth action, making it ideal for those who enjoy a richer auditory experience. The SU, with its more subtle sound profile, may appeal to users preferring a quieter typing experience, though its tactile characteristics are less defined. Ultimately, you will find that both switches provide a pleasurable typing experience, albeit with slightly different sensory profiles.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as well as your typing or gaming style. If you lean towards a lighter touch with an emphasis on a smooth experience, the Jelly switch, with its 42g actuation force, will likely be more to your liking. Its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature contributes to a satisfying auditory experience, making it ideal for casual typing or gaming when you want a more pronounced sonic feedback without sacrificing ease of use. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer resistance and a more understated sound profile, the HMX SU linear switch may be the better choice. With a 50g bottom out force and a subtle, relatively deep sound, it offers a balanced feel that can enhance focus during long typing sessions or intense gaming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your unique preferences: go for the Jelly if you value lightweight smoothness and an engaging sound, while the SU is suitable for those who appreciate a bit more weight and a simple yet refined acoustic experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more